Competitive Edge Blog » Basketball Hoop Guidehttp://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog Home Fitness and Exercise Equipment, Lifetime Sportings and Outdoor ProductsTue, 03 Mar 2015 18:14:40 +0000en-UShourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=4.1.1One Does Not Simply Set Up a Home Basketball Court…http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/01/13/one-does-not-simply-set-up-a-home-basketball-court/ http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/01/13/one-does-not-simply-set-up-a-home-basketball-court/#commentsTue, 13 Jan 2015 06:17:19 +0000http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/?p=99732Home Basketball Courts are Simple, Right? Okay, I know the “One Does Not Simply … ” statement has become cliché, but it really is true when it comes to home basketball courts. Budget, backboard size, and system features are some of the considerations you will want to review before you purchase, that is if you […]

Okay, I know the “One Does Not Simply … ” statement has become cliché, but it really is true when it comes to home basketball courts. Budget, backboard size, and system features are some of the considerations you will want to review before you purchase, that is if you want to get it right the first time. Take a look below.

How much is this really going to set me back?

Hey, lighten up a bit! You are shopping for basketball systems for your home basketball court. Michael Jordan has one of those, remember? Granted his is indoors, has NBA regulation measurements, has a hardwood floor, and probably cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to make, but still. Your basketball court can be awesome too. If you are looking to have a single basket, typical of a front yard driveway or a small backyard set up, a purchase price for the system can range from the low $100’s to over $2,000. I will help narrow that down for you in a moment. For larger backyard sport courts, you can double that cost, noting that you will likely not be purchasing in the lower product price range. From there, what kind of playing experience are you wanting? For a professional feel – like what one would experience if one went by the name of Lebron James – a tempered glass backboard is a must. That puts you into the upper price range of basketball systems with a minimum price of around $550 for a single basketball system. While other materials – acrylic, polycarbonate, and polyethylene plastic – are going to put you in the lower price range, typically under $450. Besides the basketball system cost, you will also incur a cost of installation, whether you hire someone to help, or you do it yourself. The larger the system – pole and backboard – the larger the hole you will need to dig and the more cement you will need for your footing. Keep that in mind while you are drawing up your budget. Speaking of backboard size, let’s next try to make sure your basketball court does not look weird.

This one is too big, this one is too small, and this one is just right

Some people will think of setting up a basketball court and want to go the cheapest route possible with their basketball systems while building a regulation-sized basketball court in the backyard. Going small on your backboard with so much court space is like winning the lottery and then purchasing a 1988 civic. “Go big or go home” the saying goes and so it is with lots of court space and your backboard size. The opposite is also true. Getting a big backboard for a small basketball court is like building a mansion in a trailer park. As a general rule, for a typical 2-4 car driveway, do not go bigger than 54-inches. For a backyard court with a decent amount of space – does it have a 3-point line all around the key for instance – do not go smaller than a 54-inch backboard. Now, is your basketball court going to be ruined because your backboard is too small or too big for the court size? No, but you don’t want your friends to see a weird looking basketball court at your house, do you? Well, do you? We will wrap this up with the features you may want on your basketball system.

It has a backboard, a rim, and a net, but what else does it do?

This might sound unimportant, but the features of your basketball system can really affect the whole basketball court experience you are trying to set up. For instance, a basketball system that has a rim height fixed at 10-feet is not going to be a whole lot of fun for your 8-year old son unless your son is Dwight Howard. Features you may want to look for is height adjustability, a breakaway rim, and backboard to pole clearance. To illustrate this further, a highly competitive person that wants highly competitive basketball players frequently playing a highly competitive basketball game on a large backyard basketball court may want a fixed-height basketball backboard with a breakaway rim with maximum pole to backboard clearance. Whereas, a family wanting just to be able to go shoot some hoops in a casual setting with their kids ages 8 to 16 in their driveway may want a height-adjustable backboard, whatever rim the system comes with, and less pole to backboard clearance so they have more space to shoot.

Well, you are all set. You are going to be the envy of the neighborhood. Time to get your game on.

]]>http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/01/13/one-does-not-simply-set-up-a-home-basketball-court/feed/0Replacing a Backboard on a Spalding Basketball Systemhttp://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/basketball-systems/01/09/replacing-a-backboard-on-a-spalding-basketball-system/ http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/basketball-systems/01/09/replacing-a-backboard-on-a-spalding-basketball-system/#commentsFri, 09 Jan 2015 17:24:35 +0000http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/?p=97446What to Know When Replacing a Backboard on a Spalding Basketball System So, your backboard finally bit the dust. What now? Don’t be too hasty with your next moves. Otherwise, you may find yourself with looming product returns, wasted money, wasted time, and a whole lot of unneeded frustration. In spite of what you may […]

]]>What to Know When Replacing a Backboard on a Spalding Basketball System

So, your backboard finally bit the dust. What now? Don’t be too hasty with your next moves. Otherwise, you may find yourself with looming product returns, wasted money, wasted time, and a whole lot of unneeded frustration. In spite of what you may think, basketball system manufacturers do not build parts for one another. Meaning, you cannot have a Spalding basketball hoop and purchase a Lifetime backboard and have them be compatible. Here are some things to consider when purchasing a replacement backboard.

Spalding Does Not Have Consistent Mounting Brackets Between Systems

When replacing a backboard on your Spalding system, you cannot safely purchase a 48-inch replacement backboard just because you have a 48-inch Spalding backboard on your current system. Spalding’s backboard mounting brackets vary so much from system to system that backboard size alone will not be sufficient to determine compatibility.

Maybe, If You Know the Mounting Bracket Model Number…

Let’s say you purchased a pole system or mounting bracket separately when you first set up your basketball system. You may be able to safely determine the required replacement backboard from there. For instance, if you purchased the 316 mounting bracket, and you know for sure it was model 316, you would then be able to safely purchase the 79564 or 79307 backboard and rim combos to go with that bracket without further hassle. However, a possible caveat with this method is do not base this decision off of what a bracket looks like online and what you actually have. For instance, the 316 bracket looks like many other brackets on existing Spalding basketball systems, but only the 316 bracket would be compatible with the 79564 and 79307. Therefore, if you do not know the model number for sure of your bracket, do not purchase a replacement backboard just yet.

It Is Probably Just Better You Call

Because Spalding backboards are so tricky to work with – and Spalding does not publish much information to help you on your own – it is best to contact Spalding’s customer service on the phone to confirm compatibility of a new backboard with your existing system. They can be reached at 1-800-558-5234.

]]>http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/basketball-systems/01/09/replacing-a-backboard-on-a-spalding-basketball-system/feed/0How to choose the right Lifetime basketball bracket and backboard?http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/11/07/how-to-choose-the-right-lifetime-basketball-bracket-and-backboard/ http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/11/07/how-to-choose-the-right-lifetime-basketball-bracket-and-backboard/#commentsFri, 07 Nov 2014 18:54:26 +0000http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/?p=57154I receive many calls and e-mails daily from people who are replacing their basketball backboards. The Spring season is the most busy as many hoops were damaged by winter storms, snow plows, cars, rust or what have you. Sometimes they need complete new basketball systems and sometimes they just need a backboard. Also, some people […]

]]>I receive many calls and e-mails daily from people who are replacing their basketball backboards. The Spring season is the most busy as many hoops were damaged by winter storms, snow plows, cars, rust or what have you. Sometimes they need complete new basketball systems and sometimes they just need a backboard. Also, some people call to find out what options they have to mount a backboard on their wall or roof. This chart is designed to show all the many options for the Lifetime brand backboard and rim combos and all the bracket options available.

There are many people who purchase the wrong backboard and bracket set. The are left with one option – return the backboard or the brackets and purchase the correct model. It’s quite the hassle to send it back and can be costly.

If you view this chart and still have questions reply to this post and we’ll get it answered for you.

]]>http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/11/07/how-to-choose-the-right-lifetime-basketball-bracket-and-backboard/feed/0Lifetime 1221 Pro Court Portable Basketball Hoop Impact Backboard Infohttp://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/10/17/lifetime-portable-basketball-hoop-1221-impact-backboard-product-information/ http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/10/17/lifetime-portable-basketball-hoop-1221-impact-backboard-product-information/#commentsThu, 17 Oct 2013 22:56:29 +0000http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/?p=545Lifetime 1221 Pro Court Portable Basketball Hoop Information: The Lifetime 1221 Pro Court portable basketball hoop from Lifetime Products is a very common purchase for an initial basketball system. This basketball goal is very affordable and provides many features that are great for young and developing players. Here is a brief outline of things to […]

Information: The Lifetime 1221 Pro Court portable basketball hoop from Lifetime Products is a very common purchase for an initial basketball system. This basketball goal is very affordable and provides many features that are great for young and developing players. Here is a brief outline of things to consider when looking at this basketball system. What am I getting with this basketball system? This basketball hoop comes with a 44-inch backboard. The backboard size is the biggest identifier of the overall system being for players that are just starting to learn the game. Regulation backboards are 72 inches wide. So, this backboard size is great for young players, but not for players looking to develop their game. For instance, larger backboards provide more space on the backboard to practice bank shots which are a more common shot that an advanced player would want to practice.

The Lifetime 1221 Pro Court Adjustable Portable Basketball Hoop with 44 Inch Effect Backboard is best for entertainment as your house. The Lifetime 1221 Pro Court transportable basketball system showcases a 44 inch Polyethylene backboard, a traditional basketball rim and a 27 gallon Pro Court base. The telescoping post permits you to adjust the basketball goal from 7.5-10 feet in 6 inch increments, to ensure that players of any age group can enjoy the game at their degree or level. Sharpen your jump try in your extra moments or perform a yard dousing drill with this Lifetime transportable basketball system. Unlike in-ground basketball hoops– which are usually secured in concrete– this transportable hoop rolls on wheels, letting you position the basketball system in your preferred location, from the back patio halfway to the cul-de-sac. All you need to do is fill the 27-gallon base with water or sand and play.

The Lifetime hoop adjusts from 7.5 to 10 feet in 6-inch increments.

Lifetime realizes that more youthful gamers aren’t always ready for a 10-foot hoop, which is why the basket includes a height-adjustment mechanism. The telescoping mechanism adjusts from 7.5 to 10 feet in 6-inch increments– no tools called for– allowing players of any ages and skill degrees enjoy the game on their own terms. Aspiring dunkers could additionally slowly raise the basket 6 inches at a time as their vertical enhances, although the 18-inch strong steel edge is not a breakaway edge. The black edge is as an alternative incredibly secure, with 1/2-inch steel braces, bonded steel web hooks, and a 50-gram net.

And players need not stress over the 44-inch backboard wearing considerably in time, many thanks to the UV-protected, high-density polyethylene construction. This sturdy plastic material aids the board stand up to nicking and cracking while securing the graphics from fading. Additionally geared up with a black, powder-coated, three-piece post, the Life time system carries a five-year warranty.

About Lifetime Initially, the founder of Lifetime Products wished for a tougher basketball pole for his yard. With this in thoughts, he discovered and bought a piece of heavy-duty used pipe, a sheet of ply board, and a basketball rim. The resulting yard basketball basic unit worked flawlessly in his yard. Experiencing the capacity of his hoop, he placed an ad in the local free classified newspaper and made his first sale. The remainder– as they state– is record. He developed the American PlayWorld Firm in 1973, based out of his garage in Riverdale, Utah. After broadening in to several other types of playing field devices, he at some point transferred to a larger location in South Ogden, Utah. Many years later, the firm improved the basketball industry by presenting the Quick Adjust basketball pole, the first full basketball system you can increase and lower with a broomstick. In 1986, American PlayWorld developed Lifetime Products, a separate firm meant to focus particularly on making flexible basketball systems. In the following years, the firm has expanded from having 18 staff members in a 32,000-square-foot space asunder a storehouse to greater than 1,400 staff members and 2.6 million square feet over 23 separate buildings.

Portable, height-adjustable basketball system with 44-Inch backboard

Telescoping mechanism adjusts from 7.5 to 10-Feet 6-Inch increments

27-Gallon base fills with water or sand and rolls to your desired location

Spalding Varsity Basketball – Ideal for beginners, the officially sized and affordably priced Spalding Varsity Ball is ready to take your game to the streets. It’s designed to withstand the street game with a durable outdoor rubber cover. It features deep, black channels for expert handling on the court and all-ball pebbling for a good grip.

Lifetime Pole Pad – Invest in safety with a Lifetime Pole Pad for your basketball system. Basketball pole padding cushions impact with the pole. Our Lifetime Pole Pad is made of weather-resistant vinyl and foam padding and can be used indoors or outdoors. Using Velcro straps, the Lifetime Pole Pad attaches easily to your 3.5 inch round basketball pole.

]]>http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/10/17/lifetime-portable-basketball-hoop-1221-impact-backboard-product-information/feed/2Know When You Can Order Basketball Backboard Replacementhttp://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/02/19/know-when-you-can-order-basketball-backboard-replacement/ http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/02/19/know-when-you-can-order-basketball-backboard-replacement/#commentsTue, 19 Feb 2013 23:44:21 +0000http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/?p=536You have had a wonderfully functional basketball system in your backyard for years. You have spent hours out practicing by yourself, inviting your friends and family over, and teaching your children to play. Things were going great until one afternoon, your oldest child comes in and tells you that your beloved basketball system is no more. He and his friends did not do anything wrong. They were just out shooting hoops and the backboard, quite suddenly, shattered. Hey, it happens. Backboard cannot last forever. You got a long life out of the system. Time to hang up the sneaks for good, right? No!

]]>Basketball Backboards Break – Time for a Basketball Backboard Replacement

You have had a wonderfully functional basketball system in your backyard for years. You have spent hours out practicing by yourself, inviting your friends and family over, and teaching your children to play. Things were going great until one afternoon, your oldest child comes in and tells you that your beloved basketball system is no more. He and his friends did not do anything wrong. They were just out shooting hoops and the backboard, quite suddenly, shattered. Hey, it happens. Backboard cannot last forever. You got a long life out of the system. Time to hang up the sneaks for good, right? No! Time to order a Basketball Backboard Replacement.

Basketball Backboards Can Be Replaced … Sort of

Before you junk the old system, please read the rest of this blog post. The backboard is merely a part of the system. And parts are replaceable. So, question number one is where does one go to replace their backboard? So, here is the sort of part. Several manufacturers actually sell replacement backboards through a whole host of retailers in store and online. However, not every basketball backboard replacement online or in store will work with your system. So, the next question is who made your system? You are most likely to find a replacement for your backboard from either Spalding / Huffy or Lifetime Products as both of these manufacturers actively market replacement backboards. However, all of their backboards are not replaceable. So, next question is what material is the backboard made of? If it is tempered glass, then you are again out of luck as tempered glass backboards are not retailed from either manufacturer. You will have to attempt to order directly through the manufacturer. To speed up your quest, Lifetime Products can be reached at 1-800-225-3865 and Spalding / Huffy can be reached at 1-800-558-5234. If your backboard is not tempered glass then you are still on the right track. Both manufacturers retail basketball backboard replacement units made with plastic, polycarbonate, or acrylic materials. So, you are a step closer to find the right system. The last thing that you will need to figure out is what mounting bracket you have on your system to verify compatibility with replacement backboards for sale. For this last question, brackets differ greatly. Contact us with any questions if you got to this point. We will be happy to assist.

]]>http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/02/19/know-when-you-can-order-basketball-backboard-replacement/feed/4Indoor Arcade Basketball Games and Optionshttp://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/02/15/indoor-arcade-basketball-games-options/ http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/02/15/indoor-arcade-basketball-games-options/#commentsFri, 15 Feb 2013 17:48:44 +0000http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/?p=526Here is some help for you when researching a purchase for an arcade basketball game for your home use. First, we will look at manufacturers of these types of games. Lifetime Products, Spalding, and Escalade Sports are the largest manufacturers of these types of systems - there are many other smaller makers as well. Of these 3 main players in this market, Spalding and Escalade Sports offer a more than 1 system. Each of these manufacturers offer very similar products in quality and play. However, certain minor differences between their product offerings may sway you one way or the other. We will look at each unique portion of their systems next.

Here is some help for you when researching a purchase for an arcade basketball game for your home use. First, we will look at manufacturers of these types of games. Lifetime Products, Spalding, and Escalade Sports are the largest manufacturers of these types of systems – there are many other smaller makers as well. Of these 3 main players in this market, Spalding and Escalade Sports offer a more than 1 system. Each of these manufacturers offer very similar products in quality and play. However, certain minor differences between their product offerings may sway you one way or the other. We will look at each unique portion of their systems next.

Lifetime Products Indoor Basketball Game

Lifetime Products makes only 1 system, model 90056. This system is a double shot game – meaning 1 or two players can play at the same time. This system has a couple of unique parts to it. First, the 90056 Double Shot uses infrared sensors to track scores. Traditional designs use plastic clickers to track scores. No one system is 100 percent accurate; but, infrared sensors tend to be more accurate tracking scores than plastic clickers. Plastic clickers will regularly get stuck in the down position when the ball goes through the net causing the unit to double or even triple count a score. Infrared sensors do not have that problem, essentially eliminating double and triple counting scores. Next difference for the 90056 is the frame of the unit. The poles used in the game frame are thicker diameter and heavier than other comparable poles from other manufacturers. The larger poles make the game more stable and more durable. Next difference, the frame at the base where the players shoot the balls is wider than other double shot game, sometimes by as much as a foot. This added space provides players more space to shoot and less bumping into one other. Lastly, the 90056 is one of the only Double Shot games to come with 7 basketballs. Other Double Shot arcade basketball games come with 5 or 6. This lower quantity of balls regularly interferes with game play when two players are playing as players fight one another to get the basketballs as they roll down the net. 7 basketballs tends to provide smoother game play, and less fighting between players.

Spalding Pop a Shot Arcade Basketball Games

Spalding currently offers two indoor arcade basketball games, a single shot and a double shot. This immediately differentiates them from Lifetime Products as sometimes you should do not want, or do not have enough space, for a double pop a shot shot game. The single shot game provides the same game play as the double shot game, only with a smaller frame and one basketball hoop to shoot at. Their basketball games use traditional plastic clickers. Their Double Shot game tends to be less expensive than Lifetime Products.

Escalade Sports Arcade Basketball Hoops

Escalade Sports has one of the most diverse product offerings for arcade basketball games. They have single shot and double shot games. Of their double shot games they have several product qualities to choose from. Their lowest end systems would be comparable to Spalding’s Double Shot Game. Their mid-range system would be most like Lifetime’s 90056. They also have a high-end goal with a bulky, sturdy frame in what is called their RhinoPlay series. Their mid-range arcade basketball hoops and high-end goals will typically use infrared sensors to track scoring. Their low-end systems will typically use the plastic clickers to track scores.

Choosing the best system for you

These options for your indoor basketball arcade games provide enough variety that almost anyone can find a great system for their needs. Budget conscious purchases will probably want to take a look at Spalding and Escalade games. Quality conscious will want to look at Lifetime and Escalade Rhino Play offerings. Feel free to contact us with any questions not addressed in this post so that we can better assist you in your purchase.

Check out this Lifetime Double shot video

Arcade basketball games are a lot of fun and will keep you and your family entertained for hours.

LED electronic scoring backboard and includes 4 mini basketballs and 1 pump; Requires 3 AA batteries (not included)Features 8 games with sound and game clock: play games like Horse and Around the WorldFeatures 2 player competition with ball returnFold-Up design for easy storageSturdy steel frame construction with durable metal hoops with chain netting

Arcade-style basketball game for your entertainment roomElectronic scoring for one or two playersIncludes three basketballs and pumpFully netted to keep the balls in playMeasures 8 by 2.3 by 7.6 feet

Arcade-Style Basketball Game - Designed Specifically For Home UseOne or Two Player Electronic Scoring and Time Clock - Keeps the Game MovingFrame is 7/8? Steel Tubing - Adds Sturdiness and StabilityFolds Easily to Save Space When Not in Use, Includes (2) Mini Basketballs and Air PumpPlay Position: 92?L x 26 1/8?W x 90?H, Storage Position: 35 1/2?L x 26?W x 90?H

? Arcade-Style Basketball Game - Designed Specifically For Home Use ? One or Two Player Electronic Scoring and Time Clock - Keeps the Game Moving ? Frame is 7/8? Steel Tubing - Adds Sturdiness and Stability? UPS Shippable? Equipped with Magnetic Scorers for Scoring Accuracy

Product prices and availability are accurate as of May 29 23:15:09 UTC but are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on the merchant site at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

]]>http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/02/15/indoor-arcade-basketball-games-options/feed/2Lifetime Basketball Hoop Assembly Helpful Tipshttp://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/related-articles/12/12/lifetime-basketball-hoop-assembly-tips-and-help/ http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/related-articles/12/12/lifetime-basketball-hoop-assembly-tips-and-help/#commentsWed, 12 Dec 2012 23:34:08 +0000http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/?p=517Plan on getting a basketball hoop from Lifetime Products this year for Christmas? Don't let assembly of the system slow down or ruin your holiday. Here is some helpful tips that will help you during your assembly process.

Lifetime Basketball Hoop Assembly Helpful Tips

Plan on getting a basketball hoop from Lifetime Products this year for Christmas? Don’t let assembly of the system slow down or ruin your holiday. Here are some helpful tips that will help you during your Lifetime basketball hoop assembly process.

Read All Your Instructions for Lifetime Basketball Hoop Assembly

When assembling your system, you might find a step that you recognize that parts for and can visualize how they fit into the completed goal. If this happens to you, you might be tempted to proceed with what seems an obvious step in the assembly without actually reading the directions. While you might luck out and get the step completed properly sometimes, this is definitely not advisable. Lifetime frequently puts little notes on certain steps that will direct you to do or not to do something until something else is completed. For instance, you might read a note that says “Do not tighten bolts until assembly is complete”; or “Before completing this step, make sure you do ‘this or that thing’ first.” By reading the instructions all the way through, you will save time by not having to redo steps when you inevitably get to a step that is not able to be completed based on a previous step not being followed correctly.

In-Ground Basketball Hoop Help

The most important thing I can suggest here is that if you are ordering an inground system and you want to complete the assembly for Christmas, you will need to start several days earlier (longer if the weather does not cooperate). For instance, when assembling an in ground basketball system you will need about 72 hours for the cement to set for the inground portion of the system, even when using a ground sleeve. Plan ahead, and start assembly with enough time for all steps to be completed properly. You do not want to rush assembly of your system and have it set incorrectly.

Portable Basketball hoop Help

For a portable system, you ought to mainly consider what you will use to fill your base. Generally, bases of portable goals are filled with water. Water is the easiest to fill and empty with these types of systems. However, water does have some draw backs. For instance, if your climate where you live has freezing temperatures during any part of the year, you risk damaging the base when the water expands. Lifetime makes several recommendations for dealing with water-filled bases; the key is simply doing something that avoids the water freezing. An alternative to this is sand. Sand is not a cure all necessarily. Sand tends to weigh about 1.5 times that of those units have the base filled with water – depending on the density of the sand you use. So, the plus-side to sand is a heavier, more stable base and no freezing worries. The minus-side is the heavier base is much more difficult to move around and harder to put into the base. Choose wisely.

Additional help is Available

Lifetime wants you to have a positive experience with their products just as much as you want it. Thus, they also provide a customer service line with trained technicians that are available to help with assembly issues at no cost to you. They can be reached at 1-800-225-3865. Use this resource as needed.

Check out this Lifetime basketball hoop help Video

Lifetime basketball hoop assembly can be challenging if you are not sure what to do or how to do it, but if you read this article it will help you know what to do for your Lifetime basketball hoop assembly.

]]>http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/related-articles/12/12/lifetime-basketball-hoop-assembly-tips-and-help/feed/2Replacing Backboards on Lifetime In Ground Basketball Systemshttp://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/10/31/replacing-backboards-on-lifetme-in-ground-basketball-systems/ http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/10/31/replacing-backboards-on-lifetme-in-ground-basketball-systems/#commentsWed, 31 Oct 2012 21:04:34 +0000http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/?p=467Over time, all backboards will wear out. When the time comes, a knee-jerk reaction might be to throw out the old system and look to purchase a whole new system. While, in some cases, this might be necessary, many times you can save considerable amounts of money by simply replacing the backboard of the in ground basketball goal. Lifetime Products makes many of their systems with component backboards that can be purchased retail, rather than replacing the entire goal. Here is the way to determine if your basketball system has a backboard that can be replaced.

Over time, all backboards will wear out. When the time comes, a knee-jerk reaction might be to throw out the old system and look to purchase a whole new system. While, in some cases, this might be necessary, many times you can save considerable amounts of money by simply replacing the backboard of the in ground basketball goal. Lifetime Products makes many of their systems with component backboards that can be purchased retail, rather than replacing the entire goal. Here is the way to determine if your basketball system has a backboard that can be replaced.

What is the backboard material that is used on your inground basketball system?

Lifetime in ground basketball systems can have several different backboard materials. Of those, backboards that are made of polycarbonate, acrylic, and polyethylene plastic are replaceable. If your backboard is made with tempered glass, the only way to replace the item is calling in directly to Lifetime Products and order the specific part of your in ground goal. Please note that if your system has a polycarbonate, acrylic, and polyethylene basketball backboard you cannot change these materials to tempered glass. Tempered glass backboards weigh much more than similarly-sized acrylic, polycarbonate, and plastic backboards. The mounting arms for glass backboards are much larger.

What is the shape of your pole?

Now, assuming you have a backboard with the correct backboard material, the next thing we will look at is the shape of your pole. Lifetime makes in ground basketball systems with both round and square poles. The pole shape matters because the mounting bracket that attaches the backboard to the main pole of the system will differ between these two shapes of pole. If your systems has a square pole, the mounting bracket for your backboard will not fit retailed Lifetime backboards; you will have to contact Lifetime customer service to replace it. If your pole is round, than we are still on the right track.

What size of pole do you have on your basketball hoop?

Lifetime basketball systems have several different pole-size options. For their round-shaped poles, options of 2.75-inches, 3-inches, and 3.5-inches are available. To replace your backboard for an in ground basketball goal, you will need a pole size of 3.5 inches. Smaller poles will have smaller brackets that will keep you from fitting retailed replacement backboards. If your pole is smaller in size, you will need to contact Lifetime customer service to replace the backboard. Otherwise, continue forward to the next step.

Do you see a Y-bracket that attaches to the backboard?

The mounting bracket contains several components. One of these mounting brackets that is found on basketball systems with a round pole measuring 3.5-inches in diameter has 4 mounting arms that attach directly to the frame of the backboard. The other design for the same size and shape of pole has 4 mounting arms that come off from the pole of the system and then attach to a Y shaped bracket. The Y-bracket is the last part of the mounting bracket that actually attaches to the backboard. If you see this Y-bracket (it is very obvious, it simply looks like a large capital letter Y), then you can continue to the last step.

How old is your system?

Are you still reading? Good. That means we can be about 90% certain that you have a system that has a replaceable backboard. The last thing to confirm is the age of your system. The mounting brackets have actually changed sizes in the past 10 years. If your basketball hoop is older than that, you can still purchase a retailed backboard, but you will also need to purchase a new Y-bracket. The Y-bracket consists of two parts and can be purchased from Lifetime customer service. If your in ground basketball system is younger than 10 years old, then literally any retailed Lifetime backboard, including ones that are larger or smaller than your current backboard, are going to be compatible with your current system. Please note that even if you have to purchase a new Y-bracket you will still be saving money compared to replacing the entire system.

]]>http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/10/31/replacing-backboards-on-lifetme-in-ground-basketball-systems/feed/11Basketball Hoop Purchasing Guide: Pole Shape and Sizehttp://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/basketball-systems/10/29/basketball-hoop-purchasing-guide-pole-shape-and-size/ http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/basketball-systems/10/29/basketball-hoop-purchasing-guide-pole-shape-and-size/#commentsTue, 30 Oct 2012 02:40:26 +0000http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/?p=462e pole of the basketball system is an important part for obvious reasons; the most obvious reason being it holds the backboard and mounting hardware in position. However, there are also less obvious reasons that might escape some people. With most manufacturers, they will have a series of basketball goal offerings that will increase in quality and size. Thus, the poles of their systems will also differ in quality and size. Other manufacturers will offer basketball poles in only 1 shape, but differ in sizes. We will explore all these options in this part of the basketball hoop purchasing guide.

The pole of the basketball system is an important part for obvious reasons; the most obvious reason being it holds the backboard and mounting hardware in position. However, there are also less obvious reasons that might escape some people. With most manufacturers, they will have a series of basketball goal offerings that will increase in quality and size. Thus, the poles of their systems will also differ in quality and size. Other manufacturers will offer basketball poles in only 1 shape, but differ in sizes. We will explore all these options in this part of the basketball hoop purchasing guide.

Basketball pole shape considerations

Basketball pole shapes are typically in one of 3 shapes: square, triangle, and rectangle. The most common of these 3 are square and triangle, and thus we will focus on these two in this article. For the cheaper basketball hoop budget, the most common and affordable will be basketball systems with a round pole. The round shape is easily constructed and uses less metal material than a comparably-sized square pole. On the other hand, more expensive basketball systems tend to have square pole that ultimately get very large the higher up the line you go in price. One consideration that few people realize when choosing a basketball hoop is that the shape of the pole can also determine the stiffness, or rigidity, of the basketball hoop. For instance, a square pole is much more rigid in the ground than a comparably-sized round pole. Thus, if you are wanting a rigid, stiff system, you will want to look for a basketball system with a square pole.

Basketball pole size considerations

Now that we have a good understanding of shape, we will take a look at considerations with the size options for the basketball pole. For most manufacturers offering round poles, the sizes will get as small as a 2.75-inch diameter, and grow all the way up to a 3.5 inch diameter. The larger the pole, the less movement you will see when the basketball system is in use. These round pole sizes will also follow a comparable budget, meaning, the larger the pole diameter, the more expensive the system. For square poles, sizes typically start at a 4×4 and go all the up to an 8×8. Some of these size options are manufacturer specific. For instance, only Spalding has basketball hoop options that have an 8×8-inch pole. Other manufacturers, such as Lifetime, Goalsetter, and Goalrilla, will have basketball pole sizes from 4×4 to 6×6. (Note: Spalding also has 4×4 to 6×6 poles).

Before ordering your basketball hoop, make sure you take the poles size and shape into consideration. If you will not be happy with a particular shape or size, save for the appropriate budget. Basketball hoops are a long-term purchase; better to save and be happy for the long term than impulse purchase a weaker system and regret it for years to come. As always, let us know if you have questions.

Basketball pole safety

We encourage you to get a pole pad to protect players from impact on the pole during competitive games. We offer round and square pole pads in many shapes, sizes and colors. Spalding, Lifetime and Goalsetter brands are available.

]]>http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/basketball-systems/10/29/basketball-hoop-purchasing-guide-pole-shape-and-size/feed/4Basketball Hoop Purchasing Guide: Basketball Backboard Sizeshttp://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/10/16/basketball-hoop-purchasing-guide-backboard-sizes/ http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/index.php/product-reviews/10/16/basketball-hoop-purchasing-guide-backboard-sizes/#commentsTue, 16 Oct 2012 21:19:16 +0000http://www.competitiveedgeproducts.com/sporting-fitness-exercise-equipment-blog/?p=411To start off this section, we should note that a regulation backboard is 72 inches wide and 42 inches high. Most basketball systems, however, do not have this large of a backboard. There are a large number of mini basketball hoops available, which we will not consider. We will consider basketball hoops made by Lifetime Products, Spalding, Huffy, Goalsetter, and Goalrilla product offerings that have systems that can have the rim reach 10 feet. In this group of available basketball systems, backboards widths can be as small as 44 inches wide and as big as a regulation-sized backboard. Here are some more details for each size group.

To start off this section, we should note that a regulation backboard is 72 inches wide and 42 inches high. Most basketball systems, however, do not have this large of a backboard. There are a large number of mini basketball hoops available, which we will not consider. We will consider basketball hoops made by Lifetime Products, Spalding, Huffy, Goalsetter, and Goalrilla product offerings that have systems that can have the rim reach 10 feet. In this group of available basketball systems, backboards widths can be as small as 44 inches wide and as big as a regulation-sized backboard. Here are some more details for each size group.

Small Basketball Backboard Sizes: 44 inches to 48 inches

Small basketball backboards are typical on basketball hoops priced under $300. These backboard systems will normally be made with plastic, polycarbonate, or acrylic. For these backboard sizes, they are available on in-ground, portable, and wall-mount basketball systems. The poles on the in-ground and portable system options will normally be 2.75 inches to 3.5 inches round.

Medium Basketball Backboard Sizes: 50 inches to 54 inches

These mid-sized backboard encompass systems in both the high end and low end of systems. Basketball hoops with these backboard sizes are typically priced between $300 to $1199.00. In the cheaper part of that spectrum, the backboards will be made of polycarbonate and acrylic. Those systems with these backboard materials are normally priced below $499.00. Where this backboard size category shifts into the higher-priced systems is when the backboard material is tempered glass. All of the above-mentioned manufacturers will have tempered glass backboard systems in this size category.

Large Basketball Backboard Sizes: 60 inches and 72 inches

These basketball backboards are almost exclusively made with tempered glass, with a few acrylic backboard options. Systems with this size of backboard are also almost exclusively in-ground goals, with only a couple of portable options. Goalsetter, makes a wall-mount backboard system in both a 60-inch and 72-inch backboard size. These basketball systems will also have larger poles (for in-ground and portable options). These poles are typically 5×5 inch and 6×6 inch sizes, with a couple of options with an 8×8 inch size.